Hold the Handshake
Here's a question: I have kids and sometimes my hands aren't exactly... Sanitary. What if I just wiped a nose, or worse, with my right hand, and then someone wants to shake my hand. Is it okay to say, "My hands aren't clean," or what? What if I just don't feel like shaking hands, say, after church or something? What's a good way to get out of it?
Dear Sticky Hands,
It is a very germ conscious attitude you are taking and I applaud you for that. It is perfectly acceptable to not shake hands, but it needs to be done with some indication or explanation so the other person is not left "hanging". The subtle course is to always have your hands full with something large. Pick up one of your children, but make sure you nod your head when you come up to a person in an attempt to forego the ritual handshake so that you are acknowledging them. I have found this to be a good handshake avoiding method. If that doesn't work, you can make light of the situation. There are few people who do not appreciate a little levity: "You wouldn't want to shake THESE hands!!" (with a knowing nod towards the munchkins).
The only place I think you may find this difficult to avoid is during church. A lot of services have a section where people greet each other with a firm handshake. Since you know this is coming, use a wet wipe if you think your hands have been in places that should not be shared. You can sit out the greetings, but some people just don't take that as a hint and you will be shaking hands regardless. If someone takes umbrage at your refusal, ignore it. I am sure they would be more unhappy if they got the cold from your kid.
Dear Sticky Hands,
It is a very germ conscious attitude you are taking and I applaud you for that. It is perfectly acceptable to not shake hands, but it needs to be done with some indication or explanation so the other person is not left "hanging". The subtle course is to always have your hands full with something large. Pick up one of your children, but make sure you nod your head when you come up to a person in an attempt to forego the ritual handshake so that you are acknowledging them. I have found this to be a good handshake avoiding method. If that doesn't work, you can make light of the situation. There are few people who do not appreciate a little levity: "You wouldn't want to shake THESE hands!!" (with a knowing nod towards the munchkins).
The only place I think you may find this difficult to avoid is during church. A lot of services have a section where people greet each other with a firm handshake. Since you know this is coming, use a wet wipe if you think your hands have been in places that should not be shared. You can sit out the greetings, but some people just don't take that as a hint and you will be shaking hands regardless. If someone takes umbrage at your refusal, ignore it. I am sure they would be more unhappy if they got the cold from your kid.
posted by Canton Mommy | 9:03 PM
1 Comments:
I love this topic! My Catholic church not only has the 'peace greeting' handshake but a 'greet your neighbor' handshake at the start of mass. I NEVER shake anyone's hands for either unless I keep my winter gloves on. In warmer weather I simply stuff my hands into my pockets or hold my toddler, turn to my neighbor and with a nod I express my peace or welcome greeting. Only once did someone look upset that I wouldn't shake their hand after they sneezed in it.
Post a Comment
<< Home